Ranking the Football Towns in New Mexico
- By J Grine
- New Mexico High School Football
- 11 Replies
Ranking the Football Towns in New Mexico
Grine of NMPreps.com
In effort to give our NMPrep Nation members a chance to defend their town, colors and football programs I give my unwanted ranking of New Mexico football towns. Agree, disagree or just give your thought.
Today, we take a look at the spots to be on a Friday night in New Mexico. State Championships have created some towns into fanatics of their team colors and support for their programs but some towns truly bleed the colors of their team.
As you drive into certain towns, you see building and signs flooding the views with the support for their teams. As you enter a store, the locals could tell you the name of their starting quarterback and today we look at those towns.
1. Artesia, New Mexico
When you hear the definition bleeds (insert color), in this case Orange, you think okay they like the game. However, this town LOVES the color orange and the Bulldogs. One thing I enjoy doing when I go to a town is the support around the place for local HS teams. This one you see Bulldog signs decorating the town. Also, the football stadium is outstanding, I was left in shock. Teams: Artesia High School
2. Las Cruces, New Mexico
Home to the traditional powers in Las Cruces High School and Mayfield. We all know that they love their football in Las Cruces and rightfully so as they back it up with titles. Onate we haven't forgot your title either. Centennial will soon be in that circle. Teams: Las Cruces High, Mayfield, Centennial, Onate and Mesilla Valley
3. Roswell, New Mexico
I have a close friend from the area and he, even though he didn't play, loved the football team and program. The town supports and expects to be a champion. The Goddard High School Rockets have been the champs but Roswell is coming up once again. Teams: Goddard, Roswell
4. Lovington, New Mexico
They have their fair share of titles and the facilities is top notch. They also have the famous alumni of Brain Urlacher. They have fallen on hard times recently but this place loves their football and soon will be back on top.Teams: Lovington
5. Hobbs, New Mexico
You have to place the basketball known school on the list as well here as they have top notch facilities. The following likely enjoys hoops but this program has been on the rise and will soon break through.Teams: Hobbs
Ranking the Rest
6. Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Cleveland HS and Rio Rancho HS
7. Clovis, New Mexico
Clovis HS
8. Carlsbad, New Mexico
Carlsbad, HS
9. Alamogordo, New Mexico
Alamogordo HS
10. Los Lunas, New Mexico/Valencia County
*Not a town but the county with Los Lunas HS, Valencia HS and Belen HS truly go out and support their programs. I added Belen with the proximity to Los Lunas.
Grine of NMPreps.com
In effort to give our NMPrep Nation members a chance to defend their town, colors and football programs I give my unwanted ranking of New Mexico football towns. Agree, disagree or just give your thought.
Today, we take a look at the spots to be on a Friday night in New Mexico. State Championships have created some towns into fanatics of their team colors and support for their programs but some towns truly bleed the colors of their team.
As you drive into certain towns, you see building and signs flooding the views with the support for their teams. As you enter a store, the locals could tell you the name of their starting quarterback and today we look at those towns.
1. Artesia, New Mexico
When you hear the definition bleeds (insert color), in this case Orange, you think okay they like the game. However, this town LOVES the color orange and the Bulldogs. One thing I enjoy doing when I go to a town is the support around the place for local HS teams. This one you see Bulldog signs decorating the town. Also, the football stadium is outstanding, I was left in shock. Teams: Artesia High School
2. Las Cruces, New Mexico
Home to the traditional powers in Las Cruces High School and Mayfield. We all know that they love their football in Las Cruces and rightfully so as they back it up with titles. Onate we haven't forgot your title either. Centennial will soon be in that circle. Teams: Las Cruces High, Mayfield, Centennial, Onate and Mesilla Valley
3. Roswell, New Mexico
I have a close friend from the area and he, even though he didn't play, loved the football team and program. The town supports and expects to be a champion. The Goddard High School Rockets have been the champs but Roswell is coming up once again. Teams: Goddard, Roswell
4. Lovington, New Mexico
They have their fair share of titles and the facilities is top notch. They also have the famous alumni of Brain Urlacher. They have fallen on hard times recently but this place loves their football and soon will be back on top.Teams: Lovington
5. Hobbs, New Mexico
You have to place the basketball known school on the list as well here as they have top notch facilities. The following likely enjoys hoops but this program has been on the rise and will soon break through.Teams: Hobbs
Ranking the Rest
6. Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Cleveland HS and Rio Rancho HS
7. Clovis, New Mexico
Clovis HS
8. Carlsbad, New Mexico
Carlsbad, HS
9. Alamogordo, New Mexico
Alamogordo HS
10. Los Lunas, New Mexico/Valencia County
*Not a town but the county with Los Lunas HS, Valencia HS and Belen HS truly go out and support their programs. I added Belen with the proximity to Los Lunas.
Team Rankings NMPreps.com Basketball Rankings (June 2016 Update)
- By J Grine
- New Mexico High School Basketball - Boys
- 48 Replies
Rankings Powered By First Financial Credit Union
NMPreps.com Spring-Summer Top-30 for 2016/2017
Grine of NMPreps.com
We continue to release our summer basketball countdown on NMPreps.com. We have our weekly Top-30 rankings released over the spring and summer leading you up to the 2016/2017 basketball season.
No. 1 RIO RANCHO RAMS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 19-12 (6A State Champ)
Top 100 Players Returning: Clay Patterson, 2017 (#4), Juan Hurt, 2017 (#17), Jeremy Snider, 2017 (#27), Joe Emahly, 2018 (#33), Derrick Reyes, 2018 (#66).
2016 Outlook: The Rio Rancho Rams made an incredible run to the state title after being an 11-seed last March and bringing their second state championship in basketball. Plenty of excitement along with the expectation to bring their third state championship as they return 5-players ranked in the Top-100 and returning the 2016 NMPreps.com Mr. Basketball in Clay Patterson. This team is also one of the more balanced deeps along with having a deep bench with younger talent coming up. Juan Hurt one of the Top-10 players returning next season as well in the backcourt, creates a serious roster. The Rams don't lose any players and should be a heavy favorite moving forward as they look to become the first team to win back-to-back titles since the La Cueva Bears did it in 2010 & 2011.
No. 2 VALLEY VIKINGS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 19-8 (Elite Eight)
Top 100 Player Returning: Anthony Chavez, 2018 (#14), Segun Oyeku, 2018 (#24)
Outlook: The Valley Vikings are two seasons' removed from their 2014 State Championship have been to a Final Four and Elite Eight in consecutive years. Those Final Four and Elite Eight teams featured one of the youngest but best front courts in the state of New Mexico. Two of those guards are juniors this season and already have been ranked in the Top-25 players in the state of New Mexico. Point guard Anthony Chavez is hands down one of the best guards returning this season and could be in store for a monster season. The young guard is smooth, a floor general and poised guard that you have to love. Oyeku, is the athletic wing who can get to the bucket, will knock down if left open from the corner and brings energy to this team. The Vikings do lose Teton Saltes in the paint and that will be their question mark right now moving forward.
No. 3 CARLSBAD CAVEMEN
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 24-8 (Runner Up)
Top 100 Players Returning: Brenden Boatwright, Sr (#2), Chris Johnson, Sr (#30)
Outlook: There was a point when the Cavemen basketball program was considered the worst basketball program in the modern state format era (2006), meaning the didn't win much if any on the hardwood. Well, Jamaal Brown has quickly changed those perspectives and they are coming off a 24-8 season along with playing for the 2016 State Championship. The Cavemen do lose University of the Southwest commit Ralph Cueto along with Bryce McAlister who sat out due to injury last season has since moved with his family to Artesia. However, not is all lost as the Cavemen return the second ranked player in New Mexico in 6-foot-8 post Brenden Boatwright. Boatwright hands down is one of the best players and posts in the state of New Mexico. Also, in the frontcourt is Chris Johnson a high energy utility post player. We do see some question marks in the backcourt for next season but the Cavemen have the best frontcourt returning and that alone should make them a Final Four team once again.
No. 4 CIBOLA COUGARS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 23-6 (Elite Eight)
Top 100 Players Returning: Desmond Carpenter, Sr (#17), Cameron Dixon, Sr (#25).
Outlook: The Cibola Cougars exceeded expectations last season as they rushed out to a 23-6 record reaching the Elite Eight. The Cougars battle in a difficult district 1-6A and of their 6-losses, 1 came to a team outside of their district. The Cougars without question will be a team among the best in the state again as they return their top players minus next level play Isaac Maldonado who committed to Eastern New Mexico. They return one of the best guards in the state in Desmond Carpenter a smart guard that makes great decisions with the ball. On the wing they have one of the better shooters in Cameron Dixon who is ranked in theTop-25 players from last season along with Carpenter. The roster is impressive with plenty of players that will fill voids next season as they only graduate two. On the rise is prospects Isaac Brito among other sophomores.
No. 5 CLEVELAND STORM
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 23-8 (Final Four)
Top 100 Players Returning: Marcus Hill, Sr (#34), Jayden Phillips, Jr (#43), Adam Cook, Sr (#51)
Outlook: The Cleveland Storm will have a new head coach roaming the sidelines when the 2016/2017 season kicks off ending the era of Brian Smith. Smith has been the only head coach in Storm history and hands the torch to his former assistant in former Rio Grande head coach Sean Jimenez. The Storm, a 2-seed in last the 2016 State Tournament, went 23-8 on the season, reaching the Final Four. The Storm lose the third ranked prospect in the state in Marcus Williams who will play football at the University of New Mexico. However, as many know the well is not dry in Rio Rancho as they return a plethora of talent from varsity to c-team. Next season they have a trio that was ranked in the Top 100 in Marcus Hill, a bruiser of a wing that can penetrate well. Also, returning is Jayden Phillips a long point guard with great size. In the paint is the basher in Adam Cook who could be in store for a huge year taking the Storm far into March.
NO. 6 LOS LUNAS TIGERS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 21-10
Top 100 Players Returning: Martin Trujillo, Sr (#35), Kayden Walker, Sr (#37), Hunter Wisneski, Sr (#66), Zanen Zeller, So (#74).
Outlook: It goes without question that the 2016/2017 Los Lunas Tigers will return a wealth of talent and the best next level prospect could be a few years from graduating. The Tigers went 21-10 reaching the Elite Eight last season before falling by 8-points to the eventual runner-up. Four players return, all starters, that were ranked in the 2015/2016 NMPreps.com Top 100 Player Rankings. The talk this season could be on 6-foot-2, guard Zanen Zeller or the flashy veteran who could look to have a breakout season in Kayden Walker. I really like Walker as one of the players that could sneak into the Mr. Basketball conversation with a big year. Martin Trujillo, is the wing/forward that you like for the intangibles that he brings along with the ability to score inside or outside. The Tigers also feature some rising talent with a pair of underclassmen that will contribute early on.
NO. 7 ALBUQUERQUE HIGH BULLDOGS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 17-10
Top 100 Players Returning: None
Skinny: The Bulldogs are bit of a question mark to start the season. They graduate Gabe Bump who was ranked No. 7 in the NMPreps.com Top 100 Player Rankings. However, they return or add a player who will be ranked in the top 10 but player JV basketball last season due to transfer rules. The University of New Mexico is first to offer a scholarship to post Marlon Cunnigham a class of 2018, 6-foot-8 prospect who will have plenty of options after high school. Guard Jai Douglas a junior could be an underrated guard in the backcourt next season. Randy Castillo is another speedy guard that flew under the radar last season and this team even with graduating four Top 100 players could be better in 2016/2017. The biggest question will be finishing in March.
NO. 8 VOLCANO VISTA HAWKS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 13-15
Top 100 Players Returning: David Cormier, 2017 (#5); Jalontae Gray, 2019 (#95)
Skinny: The Volcano Vista Hawks will be one of the better teams in the state next season and thanks in large part to the returning prospects on the roster. The Hawks finished 13-15 last season reaching the state tournament, falling in the first round to No. 4 Carlsbad. The Hawks finished the regular season winning 6 of their last 8 games. The Hawks return the 5th ranked player from the 2015/2016 season in forward David Cormier who will likely sign to play division one football but don't be surprised the recruits coming to call on the hoops side. Also, returning is sophomore Jalontae Gray who will be a rising prospect with a high ceiling. Also, look for Jose Vigil to contribute big this season.
NO. 9 LAS CRUCES BULLDAWGS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 16-14
Top 100 Players Returning: Markus Collins, 2018 (#44)
Skinny: The Bulldawgs were bit of a late bloomer as they started to really click late into the season winning 6 of their last 8 games that including a state tournament bid. The Bulldawgs were also one of the youngest teams in the state tournament for the most part as several sophomores gained experienced. The Bulldawgs are excited about the future with top 100 point guard Markus Collins returning for his junior season. Another pair of prospects to be excited about are junior posts RJ Brown and Vince Johnson who are developing well under head coach William Benjamin.
NO. 10 HOPE CHRISTIAN HUSKIES
Classification: 4A
2015/2016: 29-2
Top 100 Players Returning: Marcus Medina, 2017 (#50)
Skinny: Another season, another title for one of the most impressive basketball programs in the state of New Mexico. The Huskies finished the season 29-2, won their district and won their fourth straight state title. The Huskies lose two Top 100 players in Jordan Leake and Caleb Meyer-Hagen to graduation, a hit for any program. However, the team returns one of the top scoring-point guards in the state in Marcus Medina ranked 50th in the state last season. That number will rise drastically as he had a great state tournament showing, scoring at will. Also, Cole Yearout a 5-10 wing returns for the Huskies who had a solid season last year.
NO. 11 RIO GRANDE RAVENS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016: 18-11
Top 100 Players Returning: Jose Rodriguez Jr., 2017 (#29), Dakota Yancey, 2017 (#57)
Skinny: The Pride of the South Valley has been restored after reaching the Elite Eight and an 18-win season. The Ravens had one of their more successful campaigns in sometime. They lose one of the Top-20 players from the 2015/2016 in college commit Marshall Moore and will be big shoes to fill. The Ravens also lose head coach Sean Jimemez who has since become the head coach of the Cleveland Storm in Rio Rancho. The Ravens will have some star power returning in shooting guard in Jose Rodriguez who could solidify himself among the better of the shooters in the state. In the paint is Dakota Yancey who is a double-double prospect in the making.
NO. 12 LA CUEVA BEARS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016: 11-16
Top 100 Players Returning: Elijah Herron, 2017 (#72), Triston McCarty, 2017 (#85)
Skinny: Recapping last season the La Cueva Bears were the team on a brink. They won some important games but dropped a couple that they shouldn't have. They played well in the State tournament as a 15-seed, with a 10-point (71-61) loss to the 2-seed Cleveland Storm. Another name to add to a growing trio is Amarante Rhodes a guard who played considerably well last season at moments. Pair him with Elijah Herron and the swift but nifty point guard Triston McCarty. The La Cueva Bears should improve their position this season and could be closer to .500 and in the hunt for an Elite Eight to start the conversation.
NO. 13 ELDORADO EAGLES
Classification: 6A
2015/2016: 9-19
Top 100 Players Returning: Kameron Valencia, 2019 (#100)
Skinny: The Eldorado Eagles are the first 17-seed to make the state tournament after a 9-19 season. The Eagles replaced Santa Fe High in last seasons state tournament. The Eagles will be much improved and have a few prospects that could (maybe should) have been on the NMPreps.com Top 100 Player Rankings. This squad could be one of the most improved teams as they return Valencia a top sophomore in the state along with 6-foot-6 post Bryce Wade (2017) and guard Mykol Lagarde (2017). Add to the mix a talented young core of juniors and a talented junior varsity.
NO. 14 SANIDA MATADORS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 16-10
Top 100 Players Returning: Bobby Tapia (#41)
Skinny: The Sandia Matadors experienced somewhat of a roller coast season in 2015/2016 with a 16-10 record that ended in the first round of the state tournament. The Matadors lose one of the top players in the state of New Mexico in Adams State (Colorado) commit Caleb Wroten. The Matadors will have several fresh faces taking on new roles but the team will look to 2015 State Tournament name Bobby Tapia, a shooting guard who nearly took the Matadors to a Final Four as a sophomore. After a quiet junior season Tapia will look to get the Matadors back into the conversation for 2016/2017. Another name to look out for is sophomore Elijah Ferguson.
No. 15 (tie) HOBBS EAGLES
Head Coach: Mike Smith
2015/2016 Record: 17-11
Top 100 Players Returning: Marcus Hodge, Sr (#95), Duece Goodrich, Sr (#90), Clay Strasner, Jr (#80).
Outlook: The Eagles are going through a transition down in Banner City. They will return three prospects in the Top 100 Player Rankings but could be another season in the middle tier of the state, pending any transfers. The last time we had them ranked lower (I believe #23) they gained a 6'11'' power forward so it will be a wait and see who the Eagles will be. Athletic wings in Marcus Hodge and Duece Goodrich should fill the scoring void left behind Pierre Swain.
NO. 15 (tie) ROSWELL COYOTES
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 23-6
Top 100 Players Returning: Chris Mesquita, 2017 (#89), Garrett Smothermon, 2017 (#83)
Skinny: The Roswell Coyotes reeled off 23-wins last season, gained the 1-seed in the 5A State Tournament and reached the Elite Eight. Another top season for one of 5A's top basketball programs. The bad news is they graduate one of the top players in the state in Daniel Amador who signed to play with New Mexico Junior College (Hobbs, NM). They return two Top 100 Players in Chris Mesquita a high energy forward along with spot up shooter Garrett Smothermon to provide the scoring void left from Amador. It is almost guaranteed with Britt Cooper teams to have a player rise/develop into a top player or as a name we didn't know.
NO. 16 FARMINGTON SCORPIONS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 23-5
Top 100 Players Returning: David Riley (#67/2017)
Skinny: The Farmington Scorpions continue to excel under head coach Paul Corley. The Scorpions won 23-games last season and earned a 5-seed in the 2016 State Tournament. Plenty of excitement returns for the Scorpions as they have 6-foot-7, Top 100 prospect David Riley to lead the way in 2016/2017. The Scorpions return 7-players off from last season but do graduate some talent and captains. Also in the front court is Sol Sascon to help guide Farmington next season.
NO. 17 ESPANOLA VALLEYS SUNDEVILS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 24-9
Top 100 Players Returning: Azaziah Salazar (#39/2018)
Skinny: The Espanola Valley Sundevils celebrated their second state championship in school history beating rival Capital Jaguars in an instant classic finish. Now to the off-season with a once again controversial story with head coach Richard Martinez, who is currently the former head coach....for the time being. Looking at the roster they have talent returning in Top-100 player AZ Salazar and junior-to-be JP Sena (2018/Wing). This team does take a huge hit with the loss of Uriah Arellano, Elias Archuleta and Marcos Flores.
NO. 18 CAPITAL JAGUARS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 27-5
Top 100 Players Returning: Jeremy Anaya (#45/2017)
Skinny: The Jaguars were a block/charge call away from winning a state championship in 2016. Adding more to missed points is the loss to graduation of Northern New Mexico College commit Eric Coca along with Top 100 Players Augustin Larranaga and Jerome Arroyos who were key role players for the Jaguars. Jeremy Anaya returns as one of the best players in 5A basketball this coming season and will have to carry the load of new players. The program has returned to form under head coach Ben Gomez and will be another threat to return to the Final Four.
NO. 19 MAYFIELD TROJANS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 10-17
Top 100 Players Returning: Torry Locklin, 2018 (#38), Ismael Holguin, 2017 (#63)
Skinny: The Mayfield Trojans will be in the second season under rising Head Coach Billy Keys who guided the Trojans to a 10-17 season. The Trojans a bubble team for a majority of the year before dropping 5 of their final 6 games. Adding to that is they graduate some talent in paint off last seasons team. Now to the good news, they return two studs in post Torry Locklin and one of the top returning point guards in Ismael Holguin. This team will be one of the most improved teams in 6A basketball and is the reason they top the Top-30.
NO. 20 GRANTS PIRATES
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 25-4
Top 100 Players Returning: Matt Vail, 2017 (#46)
Skinny: The Grants Pirates had a remarkable season reaching the Final Four and winning 25-games on the season. The Pirates lose Fort Lewis College commit Richie Lucero along with New Mexico Highland football commit Bradley Hatten. However, they give the keys to this driving program to senior to be Matt Vail a play making guard, ranked 46th in the state of New Mexico. They only return 5 players but we really liked point guard Michael Anzures (2017) and wing Gregory Harris (2018). Anzures pushes the tempo and can knock down, Harris is an athletic wing that is more the utility type of prospect.
NO. 21 GODDARD ROCKETS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 16-12
Top 100 Players Returning: LeAnthoney Harrison, 2017 (#48), Dalton Stanford, 2018 (#80).
Skinny: The Rockets continue to develop into one of the top programs in 5A basketball. They will take another step forward this season with two of the best returning players in 5A basketball in LeAnthoney Harrison a spot up shooter along with back to the basket forward Dalton Stanford. It hurts losing Noah Waide who signed to play college basketball but this program is only on the rise. Crazy to see two football known powers in the Top-25 for basketball.
NO. 22 ARTESIA BULLDOGS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 11-14
Top 100 Player Returning: None
Skinny: Many might look at this selection and notice that we didn't have any returning players in the Top-100. Well, they could very well have up to 3 or 4 players that will be on the list next season or that should have made the list last season. One of the main prospects is Taylor Null a 6'3'' forward who was a player of the game when NMPreps.com was at the City of Champions tournament. Add in point guard Ethan Duff to create a 1-2 punch. Also, a transfer who has already moved to Artesia with his family is Bryce McAllister a 6'7'' guard who is a college level player. McAllister gives the Bulldogs arguably one of the best next level prospects on the hardwood and will be one of the best players in 5A basketball this season.
NO. 23 ONATE KNIGHTS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 25-5
Top 100 Players Returning: Hunter Thomas, 2017 (#52)
Skinny: The Onate Knights had a great season that featured them in the 2016 Final Four as the 1-seed. The team loses the number one ranked player in the 2015/2016 NMPreps.com Top 100 Player Rankings in Johnny McCants. The team will feature a front court duo in Hunter Thomas ranked #52 along with maybe a guard that should have made the list in Antonio Zamora.
NO. 24 ROBERTSON CARDINALS
Classification: 4A
2015/2016 Record: 26-5
Top 100 Players: None
Skinny: Not ranked, maybe should be, is junior to be Arjay Ortiz (6'1/Wing). Ortiz, will lead the Cardinals in 2016/2017 along with returning 7 players from the team that reached the Final Four in 2016. They do take a hit graduating a Top 100 Player in Sebastian Gonzales along with a key player in Warren Fulgenzi. Several role players will have to step into bigger roles next season and could be a boom or bust type of year.
NO. 25 BELEN EAGLES
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 17-9
Top 100 Players Returning: Nicholas Trujillo, 2017 (#94)
Skinny: This program was in terrible shape before hiring Patrick Mondragon going 8-40 before his hiring. He has quickly returned them to a respectable spot and this could be the year that they climb into a legitimate Top-8 conversation. Trujillo, returns as a top-100 player in the backcourt along with some young players that contributed to the team.
NO. 26 ALAMOGORDO TIGERS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 9-19
Top 100 Players Returning: Dee Smith, 2017, Bishop Woodruff, 2017 (#92).
Skinny: Two Top 100 Players return in Smith and Woodruff to combine that with newly hired head coach Brian Shock could create one of the top returning teams this season. Also, add into the mix top returning sophomore Rakim Stokes and this program could be packing their bags for a deep run into March. Under Shock you will expect this team to better on both ends of the court but specifically on the offensive side of the ball and could be similar to the Piedra Vista team Shock took to the Final Four in 2011.
NO. 27 POJOAQUE VALLEY ELKS
Classification: 4A
2015/2016 Record: 22-8
Top 100 Players Returning: James Garcia, 2017 (#31), Dominic Roybal (#99)
Skinny: The Elks found great success last season and will graduate a handful of role players. However, they return four players that could elevate this team into a title contender and title game serious contender. You have two players in the Top 100 Player Rankings - Garcia/Roybal - but you also add a player who could very well be in that company in Tevin Flowers (6-3/2017) who suffered a late injury and missed some key games. Andres Romero (6'/2017) another forward for the Elks who is a beast in the middle.
NO. 28 WEST LAS VEGAS DONS
Classification: 4A
2015/2016 Record: 23-9
Top 100 Players (on-going): DJ Bustos, 2017
Skinny: The Dons have been the best man a pair of times as State Runner-Ups in 2016 and 2015. They return one of the Top-15 players in the state of New Mexico in DJ Bustos who will have to carry even more of the load next season with the graduation of point guard Miguel Sena. Bustos, will take home plenty of scoring titles by the time he graduates but the question is will he carry the blue? Great team that could go either way, several 4A teams will be improved next season.
NO. 29 MELROSE BUFFALOES
Classification: 1A (Dropping down to 1A in 2016/2017)
2015/2016 Record: 26-3 (2A State Champs)
Top 100 Players (on-going): Cade Barnard, 2018 (#40)
Skinny: Another small school division hits the NMPreps.com Top-30 all because of Cade Barnard, a special player ranked in the Top 100 Player Rankings. This team was dominant last season and a team that was young in a title season and the drop down to 1A they could be in store for a perfect type of season.
NO. 30 LORDSBURG MAVERICKS
Classification: 3A
2015/20216 Record: 27-2 (3A Final Four)
Top 100 Players (on-going): Jacob Esquivel, Jr., (#88), Raymond Saucedo, Jr., (#96)
Honorable Mention: Johnny Plowman, Jr, F.
Skinny: Right off the bat, now that we have added all classifications to the NMPreps.com Top-30 we have a small school division team in the rankings. What's not to like about the Longhorns? They return two Top-100 players along with a third that could top the rankings in 2016/2017. This backcourt of Saucedo and Esquivel has to rank among the best of them that return next season. Remember they were the 1-seed in the 3A State Tournament and this might be the final chance for this team that has been in the making for three/four years now.
NMPreps.com Top-25 After the 2015/2016 Season
Posted: March 21st, 2016
BIG SCHOOL DIVISION TOP-25
1. Hope Christian Huskies (29-2, 8-0)
Last Week: 2
Skinny: 4A State Champions; 19-game win streak to end the season.
2. Espanola Valley Sundevils (24-9, 6-2)
Last Week: 10
Skinny: 5A State Champions.
3. Rio Rancho Rams (19-12, 3-5)
Last Week: 21
Skinny: 6A State Champions.
4. Carlsbad Cavemen (24-8, 5-1)
Last Week: 7
Skinny: 6A Runner-Up
5. Capital Jaguars (27-5, 6-2)
Last Week: 11
Skinny: 5A Runner-Up
6. Onate Knights (25-5, 8-0)
Last Week: 1
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Final Four
7. Grants Pirates (25-4, 6-0)
Last Week: 3
Skinny: Lost in the 5A Final Four
8. Cleveland Storm (23-8, 6-3)
Last Week: 5
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Final Four.
9. Cibola Cougars (23-6, 6-2)
Last Week: 6
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Elite Eight
10. Centennial Hawks (23-9, 10-1)
Last Week: 16
Skinny: Lost in the 5A Final Four
11. Roswell Coyotes (23-3, 6-0)
Last Week: 4
Skinny: Lost in the 5A Elite Eight.
12. Valley Vikings (19-8, 7-1)
Last Week: 8
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Elite Eight.
13. Albuquerque Bulldogs (17-10, 6-2)
Last Week: 9
Skinny: Lost in the 6A First Round.
14. Los Lunas Tigers (21-10, 9-1)
Last Week: 15
Skinny: Lost in the 5A Elite Eight.
15. Rio Grande Ravens (18-11, 4-4)
Last Week: 18
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Elite Eight.
16. Hobbs Eagles (17-11, 5-1)
Last Week: 13
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Elite Eight.
17. Sandia Matadors (16-10, 8-0)
Las Week: 11
Skinny: Lost in the 6A First Round
18. Gadsden Panthers (17-11, 5-3)
Last Week: 19
Skinny: Lost in the 6A First Round.
19. West Las Vegas Dons (23-9, 4-2)
Last Week: 25
Skinny: Lost in the 4A Championship.
20. Farmington Scorpions (23-5, 8-0)
Last Week: 17
Skinny: Lost in the 5A First Round.
21. Volcano Vista Hawks (13-15, 3-5)
Last Week: 20
Skinny: Lost in the 6A First Round.
22. Atrisco Heritage Academy (15-12, 3-5)
Last Week: 22
Skinny: Lost in the 6A First Round.
23. Bernalillo Spartans
Last Week: Unranked
Skinny: Lost in the 5A Elite Eight.
24. Robertson Cardinals (24-4, 4-2)
Last Week: 24
Skinny: Lost in the 4A Final Four.
25. Silver Colts (20-8, 8-0)
Last Week: Unranked
Skinny: Lost in the 4A Final Four.
NMPreps.com Spring-Summer Top-30 for 2016/2017
Grine of NMPreps.com
We continue to release our summer basketball countdown on NMPreps.com. We have our weekly Top-30 rankings released over the spring and summer leading you up to the 2016/2017 basketball season.
No. 1 RIO RANCHO RAMS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 19-12 (6A State Champ)
Top 100 Players Returning: Clay Patterson, 2017 (#4), Juan Hurt, 2017 (#17), Jeremy Snider, 2017 (#27), Joe Emahly, 2018 (#33), Derrick Reyes, 2018 (#66).
2016 Outlook: The Rio Rancho Rams made an incredible run to the state title after being an 11-seed last March and bringing their second state championship in basketball. Plenty of excitement along with the expectation to bring their third state championship as they return 5-players ranked in the Top-100 and returning the 2016 NMPreps.com Mr. Basketball in Clay Patterson. This team is also one of the more balanced deeps along with having a deep bench with younger talent coming up. Juan Hurt one of the Top-10 players returning next season as well in the backcourt, creates a serious roster. The Rams don't lose any players and should be a heavy favorite moving forward as they look to become the first team to win back-to-back titles since the La Cueva Bears did it in 2010 & 2011.
No. 2 VALLEY VIKINGS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 19-8 (Elite Eight)
Top 100 Player Returning: Anthony Chavez, 2018 (#14), Segun Oyeku, 2018 (#24)
Outlook: The Valley Vikings are two seasons' removed from their 2014 State Championship have been to a Final Four and Elite Eight in consecutive years. Those Final Four and Elite Eight teams featured one of the youngest but best front courts in the state of New Mexico. Two of those guards are juniors this season and already have been ranked in the Top-25 players in the state of New Mexico. Point guard Anthony Chavez is hands down one of the best guards returning this season and could be in store for a monster season. The young guard is smooth, a floor general and poised guard that you have to love. Oyeku, is the athletic wing who can get to the bucket, will knock down if left open from the corner and brings energy to this team. The Vikings do lose Teton Saltes in the paint and that will be their question mark right now moving forward.
No. 3 CARLSBAD CAVEMEN
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 24-8 (Runner Up)
Top 100 Players Returning: Brenden Boatwright, Sr (#2), Chris Johnson, Sr (#30)
Outlook: There was a point when the Cavemen basketball program was considered the worst basketball program in the modern state format era (2006), meaning the didn't win much if any on the hardwood. Well, Jamaal Brown has quickly changed those perspectives and they are coming off a 24-8 season along with playing for the 2016 State Championship. The Cavemen do lose University of the Southwest commit Ralph Cueto along with Bryce McAlister who sat out due to injury last season has since moved with his family to Artesia. However, not is all lost as the Cavemen return the second ranked player in New Mexico in 6-foot-8 post Brenden Boatwright. Boatwright hands down is one of the best players and posts in the state of New Mexico. Also, in the frontcourt is Chris Johnson a high energy utility post player. We do see some question marks in the backcourt for next season but the Cavemen have the best frontcourt returning and that alone should make them a Final Four team once again.
No. 4 CIBOLA COUGARS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 23-6 (Elite Eight)
Top 100 Players Returning: Desmond Carpenter, Sr (#17), Cameron Dixon, Sr (#25).
Outlook: The Cibola Cougars exceeded expectations last season as they rushed out to a 23-6 record reaching the Elite Eight. The Cougars battle in a difficult district 1-6A and of their 6-losses, 1 came to a team outside of their district. The Cougars without question will be a team among the best in the state again as they return their top players minus next level play Isaac Maldonado who committed to Eastern New Mexico. They return one of the best guards in the state in Desmond Carpenter a smart guard that makes great decisions with the ball. On the wing they have one of the better shooters in Cameron Dixon who is ranked in theTop-25 players from last season along with Carpenter. The roster is impressive with plenty of players that will fill voids next season as they only graduate two. On the rise is prospects Isaac Brito among other sophomores.
No. 5 CLEVELAND STORM
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 23-8 (Final Four)
Top 100 Players Returning: Marcus Hill, Sr (#34), Jayden Phillips, Jr (#43), Adam Cook, Sr (#51)
Outlook: The Cleveland Storm will have a new head coach roaming the sidelines when the 2016/2017 season kicks off ending the era of Brian Smith. Smith has been the only head coach in Storm history and hands the torch to his former assistant in former Rio Grande head coach Sean Jimenez. The Storm, a 2-seed in last the 2016 State Tournament, went 23-8 on the season, reaching the Final Four. The Storm lose the third ranked prospect in the state in Marcus Williams who will play football at the University of New Mexico. However, as many know the well is not dry in Rio Rancho as they return a plethora of talent from varsity to c-team. Next season they have a trio that was ranked in the Top 100 in Marcus Hill, a bruiser of a wing that can penetrate well. Also, returning is Jayden Phillips a long point guard with great size. In the paint is the basher in Adam Cook who could be in store for a huge year taking the Storm far into March.
NO. 6 LOS LUNAS TIGERS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 21-10
Top 100 Players Returning: Martin Trujillo, Sr (#35), Kayden Walker, Sr (#37), Hunter Wisneski, Sr (#66), Zanen Zeller, So (#74).
Outlook: It goes without question that the 2016/2017 Los Lunas Tigers will return a wealth of talent and the best next level prospect could be a few years from graduating. The Tigers went 21-10 reaching the Elite Eight last season before falling by 8-points to the eventual runner-up. Four players return, all starters, that were ranked in the 2015/2016 NMPreps.com Top 100 Player Rankings. The talk this season could be on 6-foot-2, guard Zanen Zeller or the flashy veteran who could look to have a breakout season in Kayden Walker. I really like Walker as one of the players that could sneak into the Mr. Basketball conversation with a big year. Martin Trujillo, is the wing/forward that you like for the intangibles that he brings along with the ability to score inside or outside. The Tigers also feature some rising talent with a pair of underclassmen that will contribute early on.
NO. 7 ALBUQUERQUE HIGH BULLDOGS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 17-10
Top 100 Players Returning: None
Skinny: The Bulldogs are bit of a question mark to start the season. They graduate Gabe Bump who was ranked No. 7 in the NMPreps.com Top 100 Player Rankings. However, they return or add a player who will be ranked in the top 10 but player JV basketball last season due to transfer rules. The University of New Mexico is first to offer a scholarship to post Marlon Cunnigham a class of 2018, 6-foot-8 prospect who will have plenty of options after high school. Guard Jai Douglas a junior could be an underrated guard in the backcourt next season. Randy Castillo is another speedy guard that flew under the radar last season and this team even with graduating four Top 100 players could be better in 2016/2017. The biggest question will be finishing in March.
NO. 8 VOLCANO VISTA HAWKS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 13-15
Top 100 Players Returning: David Cormier, 2017 (#5); Jalontae Gray, 2019 (#95)
Skinny: The Volcano Vista Hawks will be one of the better teams in the state next season and thanks in large part to the returning prospects on the roster. The Hawks finished 13-15 last season reaching the state tournament, falling in the first round to No. 4 Carlsbad. The Hawks finished the regular season winning 6 of their last 8 games. The Hawks return the 5th ranked player from the 2015/2016 season in forward David Cormier who will likely sign to play division one football but don't be surprised the recruits coming to call on the hoops side. Also, returning is sophomore Jalontae Gray who will be a rising prospect with a high ceiling. Also, look for Jose Vigil to contribute big this season.
NO. 9 LAS CRUCES BULLDAWGS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 16-14
Top 100 Players Returning: Markus Collins, 2018 (#44)
Skinny: The Bulldawgs were bit of a late bloomer as they started to really click late into the season winning 6 of their last 8 games that including a state tournament bid. The Bulldawgs were also one of the youngest teams in the state tournament for the most part as several sophomores gained experienced. The Bulldawgs are excited about the future with top 100 point guard Markus Collins returning for his junior season. Another pair of prospects to be excited about are junior posts RJ Brown and Vince Johnson who are developing well under head coach William Benjamin.
NO. 10 HOPE CHRISTIAN HUSKIES
Classification: 4A
2015/2016: 29-2
Top 100 Players Returning: Marcus Medina, 2017 (#50)
Skinny: Another season, another title for one of the most impressive basketball programs in the state of New Mexico. The Huskies finished the season 29-2, won their district and won their fourth straight state title. The Huskies lose two Top 100 players in Jordan Leake and Caleb Meyer-Hagen to graduation, a hit for any program. However, the team returns one of the top scoring-point guards in the state in Marcus Medina ranked 50th in the state last season. That number will rise drastically as he had a great state tournament showing, scoring at will. Also, Cole Yearout a 5-10 wing returns for the Huskies who had a solid season last year.
NO. 11 RIO GRANDE RAVENS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016: 18-11
Top 100 Players Returning: Jose Rodriguez Jr., 2017 (#29), Dakota Yancey, 2017 (#57)
Skinny: The Pride of the South Valley has been restored after reaching the Elite Eight and an 18-win season. The Ravens had one of their more successful campaigns in sometime. They lose one of the Top-20 players from the 2015/2016 in college commit Marshall Moore and will be big shoes to fill. The Ravens also lose head coach Sean Jimemez who has since become the head coach of the Cleveland Storm in Rio Rancho. The Ravens will have some star power returning in shooting guard in Jose Rodriguez who could solidify himself among the better of the shooters in the state. In the paint is Dakota Yancey who is a double-double prospect in the making.
NO. 12 LA CUEVA BEARS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016: 11-16
Top 100 Players Returning: Elijah Herron, 2017 (#72), Triston McCarty, 2017 (#85)
Skinny: Recapping last season the La Cueva Bears were the team on a brink. They won some important games but dropped a couple that they shouldn't have. They played well in the State tournament as a 15-seed, with a 10-point (71-61) loss to the 2-seed Cleveland Storm. Another name to add to a growing trio is Amarante Rhodes a guard who played considerably well last season at moments. Pair him with Elijah Herron and the swift but nifty point guard Triston McCarty. The La Cueva Bears should improve their position this season and could be closer to .500 and in the hunt for an Elite Eight to start the conversation.
NO. 13 ELDORADO EAGLES
Classification: 6A
2015/2016: 9-19
Top 100 Players Returning: Kameron Valencia, 2019 (#100)
Skinny: The Eldorado Eagles are the first 17-seed to make the state tournament after a 9-19 season. The Eagles replaced Santa Fe High in last seasons state tournament. The Eagles will be much improved and have a few prospects that could (maybe should) have been on the NMPreps.com Top 100 Player Rankings. This squad could be one of the most improved teams as they return Valencia a top sophomore in the state along with 6-foot-6 post Bryce Wade (2017) and guard Mykol Lagarde (2017). Add to the mix a talented young core of juniors and a talented junior varsity.
NO. 14 SANIDA MATADORS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 16-10
Top 100 Players Returning: Bobby Tapia (#41)
Skinny: The Sandia Matadors experienced somewhat of a roller coast season in 2015/2016 with a 16-10 record that ended in the first round of the state tournament. The Matadors lose one of the top players in the state of New Mexico in Adams State (Colorado) commit Caleb Wroten. The Matadors will have several fresh faces taking on new roles but the team will look to 2015 State Tournament name Bobby Tapia, a shooting guard who nearly took the Matadors to a Final Four as a sophomore. After a quiet junior season Tapia will look to get the Matadors back into the conversation for 2016/2017. Another name to look out for is sophomore Elijah Ferguson.
No. 15 (tie) HOBBS EAGLES
Head Coach: Mike Smith
2015/2016 Record: 17-11
Top 100 Players Returning: Marcus Hodge, Sr (#95), Duece Goodrich, Sr (#90), Clay Strasner, Jr (#80).
Outlook: The Eagles are going through a transition down in Banner City. They will return three prospects in the Top 100 Player Rankings but could be another season in the middle tier of the state, pending any transfers. The last time we had them ranked lower (I believe #23) they gained a 6'11'' power forward so it will be a wait and see who the Eagles will be. Athletic wings in Marcus Hodge and Duece Goodrich should fill the scoring void left behind Pierre Swain.
NO. 15 (tie) ROSWELL COYOTES
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 23-6
Top 100 Players Returning: Chris Mesquita, 2017 (#89), Garrett Smothermon, 2017 (#83)
Skinny: The Roswell Coyotes reeled off 23-wins last season, gained the 1-seed in the 5A State Tournament and reached the Elite Eight. Another top season for one of 5A's top basketball programs. The bad news is they graduate one of the top players in the state in Daniel Amador who signed to play with New Mexico Junior College (Hobbs, NM). They return two Top 100 Players in Chris Mesquita a high energy forward along with spot up shooter Garrett Smothermon to provide the scoring void left from Amador. It is almost guaranteed with Britt Cooper teams to have a player rise/develop into a top player or as a name we didn't know.
NO. 16 FARMINGTON SCORPIONS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 23-5
Top 100 Players Returning: David Riley (#67/2017)
Skinny: The Farmington Scorpions continue to excel under head coach Paul Corley. The Scorpions won 23-games last season and earned a 5-seed in the 2016 State Tournament. Plenty of excitement returns for the Scorpions as they have 6-foot-7, Top 100 prospect David Riley to lead the way in 2016/2017. The Scorpions return 7-players off from last season but do graduate some talent and captains. Also in the front court is Sol Sascon to help guide Farmington next season.
NO. 17 ESPANOLA VALLEYS SUNDEVILS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 24-9
Top 100 Players Returning: Azaziah Salazar (#39/2018)
Skinny: The Espanola Valley Sundevils celebrated their second state championship in school history beating rival Capital Jaguars in an instant classic finish. Now to the off-season with a once again controversial story with head coach Richard Martinez, who is currently the former head coach....for the time being. Looking at the roster they have talent returning in Top-100 player AZ Salazar and junior-to-be JP Sena (2018/Wing). This team does take a huge hit with the loss of Uriah Arellano, Elias Archuleta and Marcos Flores.
NO. 18 CAPITAL JAGUARS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 27-5
Top 100 Players Returning: Jeremy Anaya (#45/2017)
Skinny: The Jaguars were a block/charge call away from winning a state championship in 2016. Adding more to missed points is the loss to graduation of Northern New Mexico College commit Eric Coca along with Top 100 Players Augustin Larranaga and Jerome Arroyos who were key role players for the Jaguars. Jeremy Anaya returns as one of the best players in 5A basketball this coming season and will have to carry the load of new players. The program has returned to form under head coach Ben Gomez and will be another threat to return to the Final Four.
NO. 19 MAYFIELD TROJANS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 10-17
Top 100 Players Returning: Torry Locklin, 2018 (#38), Ismael Holguin, 2017 (#63)
Skinny: The Mayfield Trojans will be in the second season under rising Head Coach Billy Keys who guided the Trojans to a 10-17 season. The Trojans a bubble team for a majority of the year before dropping 5 of their final 6 games. Adding to that is they graduate some talent in paint off last seasons team. Now to the good news, they return two studs in post Torry Locklin and one of the top returning point guards in Ismael Holguin. This team will be one of the most improved teams in 6A basketball and is the reason they top the Top-30.
NO. 20 GRANTS PIRATES
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 25-4
Top 100 Players Returning: Matt Vail, 2017 (#46)
Skinny: The Grants Pirates had a remarkable season reaching the Final Four and winning 25-games on the season. The Pirates lose Fort Lewis College commit Richie Lucero along with New Mexico Highland football commit Bradley Hatten. However, they give the keys to this driving program to senior to be Matt Vail a play making guard, ranked 46th in the state of New Mexico. They only return 5 players but we really liked point guard Michael Anzures (2017) and wing Gregory Harris (2018). Anzures pushes the tempo and can knock down, Harris is an athletic wing that is more the utility type of prospect.
NO. 21 GODDARD ROCKETS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 16-12
Top 100 Players Returning: LeAnthoney Harrison, 2017 (#48), Dalton Stanford, 2018 (#80).
Skinny: The Rockets continue to develop into one of the top programs in 5A basketball. They will take another step forward this season with two of the best returning players in 5A basketball in LeAnthoney Harrison a spot up shooter along with back to the basket forward Dalton Stanford. It hurts losing Noah Waide who signed to play college basketball but this program is only on the rise. Crazy to see two football known powers in the Top-25 for basketball.
NO. 22 ARTESIA BULLDOGS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 11-14
Top 100 Player Returning: None
Skinny: Many might look at this selection and notice that we didn't have any returning players in the Top-100. Well, they could very well have up to 3 or 4 players that will be on the list next season or that should have made the list last season. One of the main prospects is Taylor Null a 6'3'' forward who was a player of the game when NMPreps.com was at the City of Champions tournament. Add in point guard Ethan Duff to create a 1-2 punch. Also, a transfer who has already moved to Artesia with his family is Bryce McAllister a 6'7'' guard who is a college level player. McAllister gives the Bulldogs arguably one of the best next level prospects on the hardwood and will be one of the best players in 5A basketball this season.
NO. 23 ONATE KNIGHTS
Classification: 6A
2015/2016 Record: 25-5
Top 100 Players Returning: Hunter Thomas, 2017 (#52)
Skinny: The Onate Knights had a great season that featured them in the 2016 Final Four as the 1-seed. The team loses the number one ranked player in the 2015/2016 NMPreps.com Top 100 Player Rankings in Johnny McCants. The team will feature a front court duo in Hunter Thomas ranked #52 along with maybe a guard that should have made the list in Antonio Zamora.
NO. 24 ROBERTSON CARDINALS
Classification: 4A
2015/2016 Record: 26-5
Top 100 Players: None
Skinny: Not ranked, maybe should be, is junior to be Arjay Ortiz (6'1/Wing). Ortiz, will lead the Cardinals in 2016/2017 along with returning 7 players from the team that reached the Final Four in 2016. They do take a hit graduating a Top 100 Player in Sebastian Gonzales along with a key player in Warren Fulgenzi. Several role players will have to step into bigger roles next season and could be a boom or bust type of year.
NO. 25 BELEN EAGLES
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 17-9
Top 100 Players Returning: Nicholas Trujillo, 2017 (#94)
Skinny: This program was in terrible shape before hiring Patrick Mondragon going 8-40 before his hiring. He has quickly returned them to a respectable spot and this could be the year that they climb into a legitimate Top-8 conversation. Trujillo, returns as a top-100 player in the backcourt along with some young players that contributed to the team.
NO. 26 ALAMOGORDO TIGERS
Classification: 5A
2015/2016 Record: 9-19
Top 100 Players Returning: Dee Smith, 2017, Bishop Woodruff, 2017 (#92).
Skinny: Two Top 100 Players return in Smith and Woodruff to combine that with newly hired head coach Brian Shock could create one of the top returning teams this season. Also, add into the mix top returning sophomore Rakim Stokes and this program could be packing their bags for a deep run into March. Under Shock you will expect this team to better on both ends of the court but specifically on the offensive side of the ball and could be similar to the Piedra Vista team Shock took to the Final Four in 2011.
NO. 27 POJOAQUE VALLEY ELKS
Classification: 4A
2015/2016 Record: 22-8
Top 100 Players Returning: James Garcia, 2017 (#31), Dominic Roybal (#99)
Skinny: The Elks found great success last season and will graduate a handful of role players. However, they return four players that could elevate this team into a title contender and title game serious contender. You have two players in the Top 100 Player Rankings - Garcia/Roybal - but you also add a player who could very well be in that company in Tevin Flowers (6-3/2017) who suffered a late injury and missed some key games. Andres Romero (6'/2017) another forward for the Elks who is a beast in the middle.
NO. 28 WEST LAS VEGAS DONS
Classification: 4A
2015/2016 Record: 23-9
Top 100 Players (on-going): DJ Bustos, 2017
Skinny: The Dons have been the best man a pair of times as State Runner-Ups in 2016 and 2015. They return one of the Top-15 players in the state of New Mexico in DJ Bustos who will have to carry even more of the load next season with the graduation of point guard Miguel Sena. Bustos, will take home plenty of scoring titles by the time he graduates but the question is will he carry the blue? Great team that could go either way, several 4A teams will be improved next season.
NO. 29 MELROSE BUFFALOES
Classification: 1A (Dropping down to 1A in 2016/2017)
2015/2016 Record: 26-3 (2A State Champs)
Top 100 Players (on-going): Cade Barnard, 2018 (#40)
Skinny: Another small school division hits the NMPreps.com Top-30 all because of Cade Barnard, a special player ranked in the Top 100 Player Rankings. This team was dominant last season and a team that was young in a title season and the drop down to 1A they could be in store for a perfect type of season.
NO. 30 LORDSBURG MAVERICKS
Classification: 3A
2015/20216 Record: 27-2 (3A Final Four)
Top 100 Players (on-going): Jacob Esquivel, Jr., (#88), Raymond Saucedo, Jr., (#96)
Honorable Mention: Johnny Plowman, Jr, F.
Skinny: Right off the bat, now that we have added all classifications to the NMPreps.com Top-30 we have a small school division team in the rankings. What's not to like about the Longhorns? They return two Top-100 players along with a third that could top the rankings in 2016/2017. This backcourt of Saucedo and Esquivel has to rank among the best of them that return next season. Remember they were the 1-seed in the 3A State Tournament and this might be the final chance for this team that has been in the making for three/four years now.
NMPreps.com Top-25 After the 2015/2016 Season
Posted: March 21st, 2016
BIG SCHOOL DIVISION TOP-25
1. Hope Christian Huskies (29-2, 8-0)
Last Week: 2
Skinny: 4A State Champions; 19-game win streak to end the season.
2. Espanola Valley Sundevils (24-9, 6-2)
Last Week: 10
Skinny: 5A State Champions.
3. Rio Rancho Rams (19-12, 3-5)
Last Week: 21
Skinny: 6A State Champions.
4. Carlsbad Cavemen (24-8, 5-1)
Last Week: 7
Skinny: 6A Runner-Up
5. Capital Jaguars (27-5, 6-2)
Last Week: 11
Skinny: 5A Runner-Up
6. Onate Knights (25-5, 8-0)
Last Week: 1
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Final Four
7. Grants Pirates (25-4, 6-0)
Last Week: 3
Skinny: Lost in the 5A Final Four
8. Cleveland Storm (23-8, 6-3)
Last Week: 5
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Final Four.
9. Cibola Cougars (23-6, 6-2)
Last Week: 6
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Elite Eight
10. Centennial Hawks (23-9, 10-1)
Last Week: 16
Skinny: Lost in the 5A Final Four
11. Roswell Coyotes (23-3, 6-0)
Last Week: 4
Skinny: Lost in the 5A Elite Eight.
12. Valley Vikings (19-8, 7-1)
Last Week: 8
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Elite Eight.
13. Albuquerque Bulldogs (17-10, 6-2)
Last Week: 9
Skinny: Lost in the 6A First Round.
14. Los Lunas Tigers (21-10, 9-1)
Last Week: 15
Skinny: Lost in the 5A Elite Eight.
15. Rio Grande Ravens (18-11, 4-4)
Last Week: 18
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Elite Eight.
16. Hobbs Eagles (17-11, 5-1)
Last Week: 13
Skinny: Lost in the 6A Elite Eight.
17. Sandia Matadors (16-10, 8-0)
Las Week: 11
Skinny: Lost in the 6A First Round
18. Gadsden Panthers (17-11, 5-3)
Last Week: 19
Skinny: Lost in the 6A First Round.
19. West Las Vegas Dons (23-9, 4-2)
Last Week: 25
Skinny: Lost in the 4A Championship.
20. Farmington Scorpions (23-5, 8-0)
Last Week: 17
Skinny: Lost in the 5A First Round.
21. Volcano Vista Hawks (13-15, 3-5)
Last Week: 20
Skinny: Lost in the 6A First Round.
22. Atrisco Heritage Academy (15-12, 3-5)
Last Week: 22
Skinny: Lost in the 6A First Round.
23. Bernalillo Spartans
Last Week: Unranked
Skinny: Lost in the 5A Elite Eight.
24. Robertson Cardinals (24-4, 4-2)
Last Week: 24
Skinny: Lost in the 4A Final Four.
25. Silver Colts (20-8, 8-0)
Last Week: Unranked
Skinny: Lost in the 4A Final Four.